Nine-Year-Old Kid Falls Ill with Tick-Borne Virus After Camping Trip

Deadly Virus Strikes Young Child, Triggers Health Concerns

A nine-year-old child from Richmond, British Columbia, is battling a rare tick-borne virus after a camping trip in northern B.C. The child, whose name has not been released, is currently in the hospital receiving treatment for Powassan virus.

Powassan virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick. The virus can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, vomiting, and fatigue. In severe cases, the virus can lead to inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, which can result in long-term neurological problems or even death.

Symptoms and Treatment

The child developed symptoms of the virus about a week after returning from the camping trip. The symptoms included fever, headache, and vomiting. The child was taken to the hospital, where tests confirmed that he had Powassan virus. The child is currently receiving treatment for the virus, and his condition is improving.

There is no specific treatment for Powassan virus. Treatment is supportive and includes measures to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Prevention

The best way to prevent Powassan virus is to avoid tick bites. Ticks are most active during the spring and summer months. When spending time outdoors, it is important to take precautions to avoid tick bites, such as:

• wearing long sleeves and pants
• using insect repellent
• avoiding wooded areas
• checking for ticks after spending time outdoors

If you find a tick on your body, remove it immediately with tweezers. Grasp the tick close to the skin and pull it straight up. Do not squeeze the tick or twist it.

Outlook

The prognosis for Powassan virus varies. Most people who are infected with the virus make a full recovery. However, some people may develop long-term neurological problems or even die.

The child who is currently being treated for Powassan virus is expected to make a full recovery.